How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Furnace and Avoid Breakdowns

Your furnace works tirelessly to keep your home at a warm, comfortable temperature all winter long. But, like any other utility, it does best with routine care from trained technicians to ensure it runs as efficiently as possible and to avoid any inconvenient breakdowns. Proper maintenance for your furnace makes it more likely to last years longer, especially compared to one left alone. It also means more affordable energy use!

Here are some practical tips to maximize the lifespan of your furnace and keep it running more efficiently for many winters to come.

Change the Filter on a Regular Basis

The filter traps dust, fur and other airborne allergens to stop them from reaching the system’s more delicate components. Over time, the filter becomes blocked with debris, restricting airflow and making your furnace to work harder. This added strain could result in more problems and sometimes permanent system damage.

To avoid those kinds of problems, check and change the filter around every 1 to 3 months, depending on your heating habits and the type of filter in place.

Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Another way to lessen your furnace’s potential workload is to take what steps you can to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Proper insulation and other sealing accessories around windows and doors will keep heat from escaping, allowing your furnace to reach a comfortable temperature. When your furnace doesn’t have to work as hard, it suffers less wear and tear, increasing its lifespan.

Schedule Annual Preventative Maintenance

Annual maintenance from a certified HVAC professional ensures your furnace’s long-term performance. During the appointment, the technician examines, cleans and otherwise tunes up the system for best performance. This preventative care helps identify small issues sooner rather than later, preventing costly repairs. A regular tune-up also reduces energy waste, cutting your monthly heating costs.

Maintain a Clean Space Around the Furnace

Keeping the space around your furnace uncluttered encourages better airflow. Make sure the area is clean and well clear of hazardous materials. This avoids any safety issues, ensuring your furnace circulates more smoothly.

Use a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat allows you to truly fine-tune the heating in your home, with features like scheduling automatic setbacks when you’re out or sleeping. This limits run time, lowering your energy bill and helping preserve the system.

Don’t Put Off Furnace Repairs

If you begin to notice any unusual noises, stubborn cold spots or unexpected utility spikes, don’t delay checking out these signs of trouble. Even small issues can gradually develop into more severe situations. If left ignored, it could shorten the lifespan of your furnace. Prompt furnace repairs can prevent further damage and keep your system better protected.

Keep All Vents and Registers Unblocked

Your furnace will only function best when the ventilation between supply and return vents is balanced. Sealing off the majority of your supply registers can cause excess strain or force your furnace to work harder. To help keep things running smoothly, make sure that all air vents are open and free from being blocked by any curtains. This allows your furnace to distribute heat properly. 

Avoid Overworking Your Furnace

Setting your thermostat above normal forces your furnace to run way too much, putting excess stress on the entire system. This increased workload leads to extra wear and tear. To keep it running longer, set your thermostat to an energy-efficient temperature—ideally between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit. You can alternatively adjust the temperature by around 8-10° while you’re out of the house. These simple changes save energy and prevent any excess wear on your furnace. 

Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Model

If your furnace is outdated and needs more frequent repairs, it may be time to replace it. Modern furnaces feature improved performance while still lowering heating costs. Although the pricetag may be higher than a repair, the smaller utility bills and increased efficiency make it worthwhile. 

Trust Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Reliable Furnace Maintenance

Properly servicing your furnace prevents breakdowns, enhances its day-to-day operation and can even ensure a long service life. Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing takes pride in helping you enjoy a warm and comfortable home. Our experienced technicians deliver prompt, trustworthy service.

If it’s been a while since your last furnace tune-up or if you’re interested in more personalized advice to optimize your furnace, please contact us today!